I stand with my friends and neighbors in opposition to the proposed downzoning of Central Square. I ask you to vote against the downzoning petition, and instead support policies that build a better Cambridge -- a diverse and dynamic community on a path toward sustainable growth.

I believe new development can play a positive role in strengthening the social, cultural, and economic diversity of Cambridge’s neighborhoods. When used appropriately, density can serve the varied needs of all Cambridge households, while promoting sustainable growth that allows current and future residents the opportunity to live, work, shop, and play in the same community.

=> Downzoning will hurt the diversity of our neighborhoods by restricting our ability to create the kinds of housing needed to meet the demands of all Cambridge families.

=> Downzoning hurts our vibrant local economy. It will decrease the amount of retail space affordable to small business owners, and result in new commercial development that is out of touch with the character of our business districts and disconnected from our community’s priorities.

=> Downzoning is not environmentally sustainable. It reinforces sprawl, pushing jobs and vital services further from our community, increasing traffic congestion and automobile emissions on our roads.